NEW: Patrick Kennedy Opposed to Legalization of Marijuana

Former Rhode Island Congressman and admitted drug abuser Patrick Kennedy has joined a coalition opposed to the legalization of marijuana.

Kennedy, who left Congress in 2010, has joined with conservatives in the organization called Project SAM (Smart Approaches to Marijuana).

Kennedy's Battles with Drugs and Mental Health

During his college years, his tenure in the Rhode Island General Assembly and as a member of Congress, Kennedy battled both mental health issues and drug issues. He has been a national voice in funding and expanding mental health treatment.

Relative to Project SAM, Kennedy told Reuters, "Yes, the drug war has been a failure, but let's look at the science, and let's look at what works. And let's not just throw out the baby with the bathwater."

Other members opposing the legalization of marijuana include: Conservative commentator David Frum, who once served as a speech writer for former President George W. Bush.